L
ynchburg City Council members rejected a proposal to increase the lodging tax and room rate, citing concerns it would drive visitors away. The current 6.5% lodging tax and $1 room rate will remain in place. A motion to raise ambulance ride rates also failed due to lack of a second.

    The council did approve a real estate tax hike from $.89 to $1.025 per $100, despite some opposition. Councilwoman Stephanie Reed argued the increase would benefit all households, but others opposed it as a "transfer" rather than providing actual relief. The city has until July 1 to pass its budget.